Gazprom Space Systems, a Russian international satellite operator, and Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., the Israeli satellite networking technology, solutions, and services company, signed a contract with an estimated value of U.S.$18 million, to provide broadband connectivity across Russia.

Gilat will deliver its multiservice platform and user terminals to operate over the new Yamal 601 Ka-band satellite. The two companies also signed a Cooperation Agreement for joint development of communication projects such as inflight connectivity (IFC) and railway transport.

The Yamal 601 Ka-band satellite is to be launched in 2019 and will provide broadband coverage for both the European and Asian regions of Russia. The satellite’s 32 beams will be powered by Gilat’s two SkyEdge II-c gateways to be installed in the Central and Siberian Federal Districts of Russia.

This first phase of the project consists of gateways for utilizing one-third of the satellite’s capacity and includes the delivery of tens of thousands of Gilat terminals with DVB-S2X technology. An expansion of the project is expected when additional capacity will be required for further service.

Gilat’s platform, supporting a broad portfolio of very small aperture terminal (VSAT) solutions, will enable Gazprom Space Systems to provide high quality affordable broadband to various market segments. Gilat’s Scorpio VSATs will deliver consumer broadband to the most remote locations, while Gilat’s Capricorn VSATs will enable the rural regions to benefit from enterprise connectivity and shared access.

Additionally, Gazprom Space Systems and Gilat also agreed to engage in further business cooperation including joint development to expand both regional and global coverage for fixed and mobile platforms, as reflected in the signed Cooperation Agreement.

The agreement calls for IFC coverage over Russia and abroad supported by multiple Ka- and Ku-band satellites from Gazprom Space Systems and other satellite operators, taking advantage of Gilat’s dual-band Ku/Ka-band antenna. The agreement also includes provision for communication services to passengers of railway transport with Gilat’s on-the-move terminals and Gazprom’s satellite capacity.

“GSS is pleased to collaborate with Gilat for Ka broadband coverage across Russia and to further extend our partnership to future projects,” said Dmitry Sevastiyanov, Director General of Gazprom Space Systems. “We chose Gilat’s platform due to its high efficiency and its flexibility to support multiple applications today and tomorrow.”

“Gilat is honored to be selected by GSS as the ground segment provider for its Yamal 601 Ka satellite and is excited about the potential of additional cooperation for future joint development projects,” said Michal Aharonov, Vice President Commercial at Gilat. “This partnership is a significant step for Gilat in Russia as an enabler of high-quality affordable broadband to the people of Russia in a variety of markets.”